Amidst the majestic Himalayas, picture the stunning landscapes of Hunza. Here, a remarkable story unfolds — a tale of women empowerment, entrepreneurship, and the relentless spirit of Hunza. Nosheen Barkat stands as one shining example, serving as the CEO and founder of Asqurr, the first and only women-led honey brand in Pakistan.
Beekeeper’s Journey
Nosheen Barkat shares her vibrant world as a beekeeper with Zainab in a podcast. Within the charming region of Hunza, where honeybees dance among the blossoms, Asqurr delivers honey all over Pakistan. Nosheen’s role as a mentor for women entrepreneurs and an optimism expert showcases the multifaceted nature of her mission. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the progressive society of Hunza.
Progressive Society in the Making
Hunza, often lauded for its high literacy rate of more than 95%, did not achieve this milestone overnight. Nosheen takes us back to the 1960s when poverty and a lack of resources were prevalent. It was the visionary efforts of His Highness Agha Khan and collaborative initiatives with the government that ignited a revolution. Schools were built, health services were introduced, and the community embraced change, setting the foundation for a progressive society.
Strength of Tradition and Resilience
Zainab acknowledges the strength of the people of Hunza, emphasizing their resilience and acceptance of challenges. The community’s commitment to education, awareness, and innovation led to transformative changes. Nosheen highlights the role of the Agha Khan Development Network and the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSUP) in community mobilization, saving money, and prioritizing education.
Women Empowerment in Hunza
Zainab applauds the women of Hunza for embracing change and challenges. From mountain climbing to participating in sports, women in Hunza are breaking stereotypes. Nosheen agrees and further shares the mindset that prioritizes education over dowries, fostering a culture where daughters’ education is valued more than extravagant weddings. The focus on education has led to a society where even the lowest education level is a master’s degree.
Tourism and Cultural Understanding
Tourism has brought economic opportunities to Hunza, but there are concerns about the need for cultural understanding among tourists. Nosheen urges tourists to educate themselves about local customs, emphasizing the openness and hospitality of the people of Hunza. She stresses the importance of cleanliness and respect for the environment, urging tourists to be responsible visitors.
Embracing Progress with Tradition
The story of Hunza serves as an inspiration for the rest of Pakistan. Nosheen emphasizes the need for a growth mindset and the acceptance of change for the betterment of society. The Hunza model proves that progress and tradition can coexist harmoniously, creating a society that is not only modern but deeply rooted in its cultural values.
The interesting conversation between Nosheen Barkat and Zainab shows us a glimpse into the richness of Hunza’s story, an incredible journey of women empowerment. In Hunza, the spirit of progress and tradition intertwines seamlessly, creating a society that is not just a model for Pakistan but a testament to what can be achieved when women are empowered, and communities are united.